What's Happening?
Argentina is actively pursuing a bid to host the 2035 Rugby World Cup, which would mark the first time the tournament is held in South America. The Argentine Rugby Union, led by President Gabriel Travaglini, is spearheading the effort, with plans to involve
neighboring countries Brazil, Chile, and Uruguay in hosting duties. World Rugby's chief executive, Alan Gilpin, is currently in Argentina on a fact-finding mission as part of the preliminary stages of the bidding process. Argentina's bid is part of a broader strategy by World Rugby to expand the tournament's reach and explore new markets, following recent host selections like Japan in 2019 and the United States in 2031.
Why It's Important?
Hosting the Rugby World Cup would be a significant milestone for Argentina and South America, potentially boosting the region's rugby profile and infrastructure. It would provide an economic boost through tourism and international exposure, while also promoting rugby's growth in a region traditionally dominated by football. The bid reflects World Rugby's strategy to diversify and globalize the sport, tapping into new audiences and markets. Success in securing the bid could lead to increased investment in rugby at the grassroots level across South America, fostering talent development and enhancing the sport's popularity.
What's Next?
The next steps involve Argentina formalizing its bid and competing against other interested nations, including Japan, Spain, and a potential Middle East consortium. World Rugby will conduct site visits and assessments before identifying a preferred host in 2027, with a final decision expected in November of that year. Argentina will need to demonstrate its capability to host a world-class event, including infrastructure readiness and logistical planning. The outcome of this bid could influence future strategies for rugby development in South America and beyond.
